Getting Your New House Keys And Moving In

Building your dream home is an incredible journey. From laying the foundation to seeing the final coat of paint, the excitement builds until the moment you receive your house keys. But before you can officially move in, there are some essential steps for smooth transition. This guide will walk you through the final phase so you’re well-prepared to enjoy your new home.

The Final Steps to Completing Your Dream Home

Final Walkthrough and Practical Completion

Before you receive the keys, your builder will issue a letter of practical completion, a milestone in the building process. You’ll then be invited to a walkthrough with the project manager to inspect the property. This step is crucial to be sure that all work completed meets your expectations.

Take your time during this inspection. Check for defects and refer to a master builder’s handover checklist for thoroughness. The builder must rectify any issues identified at this stage within an agreed-upon timeframe.

Certification and Compliance

A private certifier will assess your new home to confirm it meets all required standards and complies with regulations. Once satisfied, they will issue an occupation certificate. This document is essential, as it legally allows you to move into the property.

Final Valuation and Insurance

Your bank will conduct a final property valuation before releasing the last payment. Make sure you have home insurance ready to cover the property from the date of practical completion stage. This step safeguards your home against unforeseen issues from the moment you take ownership.

What is an Occupation Certificate?

An occupation certificate is a crucial document that certifies your new home complies with all relevant building codes, regulations, and safety standards. Issued by a private certifier or local council, this certificate confirms that the property is safe to live in and that all construction work meets legal requirements. It’s important to note that moving in without an occupation certificate in NSW is not permitted and may result in fines.

Whether it’s a final occupation certificate or one issued after temporary works, having the right certification provides peace of mind and avoids potential penalties. Always check with your builder or certifier to understand the process and timelines for obtaining this essential approval.

Preparing for the Big Move

With your certification and inspections completed, it’s time to plan your move:

• Arrange connections for utilities, internet, and phone services.
• Create a plan for children and pets during moving day.
• Change your address and set up mail forwarding.

Refer to a comprehensive moving guide to make this process seamless.

After You’ve Moved In

Once settled, focus on maintaining your home’s condition to protect its value and warranties. Some tips include:

• Clear gutters regularly to prevent water damage.
• Book annual pest inspections to avoid costly repairs.
• Re-oil decks and clean the exterior annually to extend the life of finishes.
• Use a no-shoe policy indoors to keep carpets in pristine condition.

Landscaping and Practical Tips

Complete your landscaping promptly to minimise dirt being tracked indoors. If you’re handling landscaping yourself, locate all pipes and drains to avoid accidental damage. Consider laying turf or using temporary flooring protectors to reduce wear and tear on your new house’s floors.

Trust Better Built Homes

At Better Built Homes, we’ve spent over two decades perfecting the art of homebuilding. From your first consultation to house handover, our team is committed to delivering homes that exceed expectations.

As multiple award winners—including HIA Most Professional Builder NSW—we pride ourselves on quality, attention to detail, and a customer-first approach. If you’re ready to start your journey, contact us today.

Let us help you turn your dream home into reality.